Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

What are STIs?

STIs are infections that are transmitted through oral, vaginal, or anal sex, as well as other sexual activities such as mutual touching of genital area. The most commons STIs at UVA are human pappilomavirus (HPV), herpes, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea.

Symptoms of STIs

Most people do NOT show symptoms of having an STI. If symptoms develop, the common ones are:
- Discharge from the urethra (men) or vagina (women).
- Pain with urination.
- Blisters or warts on genitalia.
- Flu-like symptoms.

Diagnosis of STIs
Depending on the type of STI, either a blood draw, urine sample, swab of a blister, visual inspection, or Pap smear (for women) will be done.

What you can do
The best thing to do is prevent getting an STI to begin with. Always use a condom or other barrier (ie, dental dam for oral sex) with every sexual act, limit the number of sexual partners, and get tested for STIs if you have had a risky encounter.

Consult health care personnel:
- If you notice any changes in your genitals.
- If you have had multiple sex partners.
- If you have had sex without using a condom.